Polaris, Ariens Announce Partnership

Posted on December 19, 2013

Polaris Industries Inc. has announced a strategic partnership with Ariens Company. The announcement said the two companies will benefit through exposure to adjacent markets while fostering innovation through shared technology and R&D investments.

The partnership includes supplying Ariens with what Polaris called “a highly differentiated work vehicle.” Branded Gravely, the vehicle will have different performance and styling characteristics to meet the requirements of Gravely's work-focused end users.

Additionally, the partnership provides both companies access to expanded dealer channel opportunities. "This partnership will create an even stronger dealer network by bringing together the related categories of outdoor power sports and outdoor power equipment. Dealers for the two companies share a lot of commonality including the understanding of how to serve and service the customers in this outdoor space," said Dan Ariens, Ariens Co. president and CEO.

Polaris said it has executed similar partnerships in the past, notably its ongoing partnership with Bobcat Co. and Eicher Motors in India.

Areins also announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire select assets of three specialty direct marketing brands from W. W. Grainger, Inc. Gempler’s, Ben Meadows and AW Direct. The three will become part of the Ariens outdoor power equipment manufacturing and distribution company when the agreement closes by January 1, 2014.

“As we grow the distribution side of the business these companies represent strong niche segments that fit nicely with our current portfolio of outdoor brands,” says Dan Ariens, company president and CEO.